Author: kgullackson (Page 1 of 6)

Blog 2 I Free Inquiry

12 October 2025 / / 0 Comments
Women in purple shirt sitting and researching on a laptop
Photo by Michael S on Unsplash

Exploring Game-Based Learning: Research Findings, Insights, and Reflections

This week, I began exploring my inquiry topic more deeply by reviewing several peer-reviewed articles and educator resources about game-based learning. One source was Game-Based Learning: Pros, Cons & Implementation Tips for Educators (Jordan Nisbety, 2034.), which linked to multiple research studies and reports that expanded my understanding of how teachers use games in classrooms and the challenges they face.

Key Research

Gives some great research articles that I explored further:

Level Up Learning Survey Reseach Findings

The Level Up Learning survey (Games and Learning Publishing Council, 2014) collected data from 694 K–8 teachers across the United States to examine how digital games are used in instruction.

  • 74% of K–8 teachers use digital games for instruction.
  • 55% allow students to play educational games at least weekly.
  • 71% of teachers report that digital games improve students’ mathematical learning.
  • 43% use built-in assessment systems that come with certain games.
  • 72% of teachers access games using desktop or laptop computers.
  • The most common tools mentioned were Starfall, Coolmath, and PBS Kids.

Recommendations from the Research

  • Create a shared framework for classifying and evaluating educational games by grade, subject, price, and curriculum alignment.
  • Increase awareness of flexible integration methods, such as short-form games or flipped-classroom approaches.
  • Invest in innovative classroom models that balance engagement, curriculum goals, and learning outcomes.
  • Provide universal technology training for teachers.
  • Develop and promote online training resources for teachers on digital games and how to implement into the classroom.
  • Conduct and share ongoing research with educators and policymakers to improve practice.

Benfits of Game Based Learning

  • Encourages critical thinking and problem solving
  • Increases student engagement and motivation
  • Improves situational and experiential learning
  • Supports diverse learning with interactive and visual methods

Drawback of Game Based Learning

  • The cost of software.
  • Can be a distraction, especially with less supervision and a higher risk of students going off task.
  • Requires more time for set up and trainging for teachers and students
  • Technical problems such as slow connection speeds or blocked websites.

Game-Based Learning Tool

Some game based learning tools I would like to further explore are:

  • Prodigy
  • Quizziz
  • Kahoot

Discussion with Mentor Teacher

I reached out to past mentor teachers to ask if they use digital-based learning in their classrooms and their thoughts and opinions on the topic. I have not received an email back but will provide an update once I receive more information.

Reflection

After further research into digital game-based learning, I want to include more game-based activities in my future classroom. Studies demonstrate the effectiveness of game-based learning in boosting student engagement and learning outcomes. Before introducing any game, I would spend time practicing and exploring the tool myself to ensure it matches my grade level, learning objectives, and classroom needs. Doing this helps ensure the games I choose are both meaningful and supportive of student success.

Week 3 Blog: Foundations of Online & Open Education

26 September 2025 /
Teacher at desk on her computer
Photo by Vitaly Gariev on Unsplash

In week 3 in EDCI 339, we explored the foundations of online and open education, focusing on what makes digital learning effective and inclusive.

The Digital Learning Framework

One of the key readings was the Digital Learning Framework created by Dr. Valerie Irvine and Dr. George Veletsianos for the BC Government. The framework was written during the early stages of the pandemic and outlined how BC could strengthen digital learning for the future.

It explained the importance of strong leadership, collaboration across institutions, and additional training for educators to teach online with confidence. It also highlighted the need to make digital learning accessible for everyone, including students in rural areas or those who need flexible options. One of the main takeaways was that many experienced “emergency remote teaching,” not authentic online learning. Real online education should be designed to promote inclusion, flexibility, and accessibility from the start.

Equity and Design in Learning

This reading helped me understand how design and equity are central to effective online learning. Moving lessons online is not enough; educators must also consider how to engage all students and create meaningful learning experiences across different formats. The idea of “shifting the conversation” resonated with me, as it encourages viewing online education as an opportunity for growth rather than just a backup plan.

I also noticed how the framework connects to what we’re doing in this course. Forming pods to support each other’s inquiries reminded me of the framework’s emphasis on collaboration and community. It shows that le arning online can still be social and relational when designed thoughtfully.

Computer screen with visuals screen of everyone on zoom call.
Photo by Chris Montgomery on Unsplash

Reflection and Future Application

After reflecting on this week’s learning, I want to bring these ideas into my future teaching. My goal is to design lessons that give students different ways to participate and show what they know, while making sure all learners feel supported and included.

As I start working with my pod on my Free Inquiry Project about game-based learning, these ideas will guide me in exploring how digital tools can boost engagement and inclusion in online spaces. 

Free Inquiry I Week 1

19 September 2025 /
Child on computer playing an online game
Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash

Exploring Game-Based Learning: Can Play Improve Online Education?

I chose this topic because, as a learner, I am motivated and engaged when there are competitions and games involved. I find I learn naturally when it’s in a game format. One example that comes to mind is Kahoot, a fun interactive game the class can participate in while learning at the same time. I wanted to explore whether game-based learning can improve academic outcomes in an online setting.

My initial questions I came up with:

  • Does game-based learning improve academics?
  • How do game-based learning tools help students stay motivated?
  • Can games help students remember new information for longer?
  • How can we create fun online games that are also educational?
  • How can teachers use games in synchronous and asynchronous classes?
  • Which game-based learning tools work best for elementary students?

Starting my Research

I plan to begin researching game-based learning by doing the following:

  • Search for online articles about game-based learning, such as the UVIC database.
  • Ask a teacher about their experiences using game-based tools in the classroom.
  • Have discussions with my inquiry group about their personal experiences with game-based learning, either as students or in their own teaching practice.

These upcoming steps will help me refine my inquiry questions by conducting research and reflecting on the topic.

Week 2 Blog: Data Privacy, Consent and Copyright

15 September 2025 /
Lock on computer with credit cards.
Photo by Towfiqu barbhuiya on Unsplash

Understanding FIPPA and PIPA

The course blog also introduced Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy (FIPPA) and Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (PIPA), reminding me that privacy isn’t just a policy issue but an ethical responsibility. As teachers, we should clearly explain what data is being used, why, and give students meaningful choices.

Creative Common Licensing

We also explored Creative Commons licensing, which is a non-profit organization that provides CC licenses and public domain tools to give every person and organization a way around copyright permission for creative and academic work.

How to Make a Good Blog Post?

After reading post,  What Makes a Good Blog Post, I focused on how to implement this into my own blog posts. focused on adding hyperlinks, embedding visuals, and writing with a personal, authentic voice to make my posts engaging and accessible.

Photo by Fikret tozak on Unsplash

From Learner to Teacher

As I move toward Assignment #1, I’ll keep these lessons in mind, designing with privacy, consent, and openness in mind while creating online learning content.

Looking ahead to my future classroom, I can see myself teaching students how to protect their digital identities and recognize credible sources online. I would do this by implementing Creative Commons resources and encouraging students to license their own creations.

Week 1: Learning in the Open

11 September 2025 /
Blogging concept with man
Designed by Freepik

Introduction

This week helped me understand what it truly means to learn and teach in an open and connected way. The course website, our blogs, and shared reflections all demonstrate how learning can occur in an online space.

Learning About Open Education

Reading the articles by Graham and Roberts (2019) and Irvine et al. (2022) made me realize how much thought goes into creating open learning environments. The Open Hub Model illustrates how a central hub, like a course blog, can connect students’ individual blogs and help them build confidence before engaging with wider online networks. The Multi-Section Open Course Design article explained how this type of openness also allows instructors to share resources, collaborate, and ensure course content can be accessed after the course semester.

Key Takeaways

What stood out to me is that open learning isn’t just about technology, it’s about community, trust, and choice. Students have the freedom to decide how public their work is, how they want to express their ideas, and how they connect with others. 

Looking Ahead

In the future, I want to continue exploring what openness means for me as a learner and future educator. I want to include blogs, open resources, and shared digital spaces to make learning more creative and inclusive in my classroom.

Ethics and PRIVACY WHEN USING AI

17 August 2025 /

AI tools are powerful, but without careful use, they can jeopardize students’ privacy, reinforce bias, or misused privacy are not optional steps; they are vital elements of responsible teaching. The choices we make with AI today directly influence our students’ trust, safety, and learning experiences (Holmes, Porayska-Pomsta, & Holstein, 2022; Floridi & Cowls, 2019).

Key Guidelines for Teachers

  • Protect student data: Never paste personal or identifiable information into AI tools (Holmes et al., 2022).
  • Use pseudonyms or profiles: Keep real names and sensitive details private (UNESCO, 2023).
  • Verify outputs: Double-check AI-generated content for accuracy and inclusivity (Luckin et al., 2016).
  • Check for bias: Ensure materials reflect diverse perspectives (Kasepalu et al., 2022).
  • Follow policies: Align your AI use with school and district privacy rules (BC Ministry of Education, 2019).

Watch the video below: “Using AI Ethically in the Classroom; A Teacher’s Guide.” Reflect on how these practices could apply to your teaching context.

Complete the Google Forms before proceeding to the next activity.

Table of Contents
Go to Activity One

Activity 5: Compare Prompt Templates

11 August 2025 /

Activity #5: Activity 5 follows a constructivist learning theory and aligns with learning objectives 4; Create effective prompts for accurate, relevant, and curriculum-aligned content, and 5; Evaluate and adapt AI-generated materials for accuracy, bias, and alignment with learning goals. 

This activity is designed to show teachers how they can incorporate curriculum-specific material into AI. It also shows them that although you can give an abundance of information to a GENAI platform, you may have to adapt AI-generated materials, as you know your classroom best! Lastly, it provides the learner with the confidence to create their templates/prompts they can use with AI going forward. All of these considerations ensure responsible AI practice. 

Instructions:

STEP ONE: Prompt any following AI platform of your choice (CHATGPT, GEMINI or DIFFIT) with the following sentences filling in the blanks accordingly.


Create a (choose 1) detailed/simple lesson plan for (grade level) students on the topic of (topic you are teaching) in (subject). The lesson should be designed to last (duration).

STEP TWO: Find three things you want to adapt about the results, keeping your classroom in mind. 

STEP THREE: Next, you can compare the results from prompt #1 to when the following template is used, filling in the blanks accordingly. Some things to look for are how realistic you believe each lesson to be, consider which lesson you are more likely to use, the clarity/description of each lesson, and the way the AI platform introduced/concluded the lesson (e.g., why this works section).

STEP FOUR: Reflect on the importance of ensuring that curriculum content is correctly being followed.

STEP FIVE: Create your template that you see yourself using moving forward!

STEP SIX :
Post reflection questions below on your WordPress blog.

Reflection Questions for Blog Post

  1. Prompt Design
  • What choices did you make in your prompt (grade, subject, duration)?
  • How did these choices affect the AI’s output?
  1. Adaptation
  • What three changes did you make to the AI lesson?
  • Why were these changes important for your students/curriculum?
  1. Comparison
  • Which prompt result (Step 1 or Step 3) was more useful?
  • What key differences did you notice?
  1. Curriculum & Responsibility
  • Did the AI lesson follow curriculum standards?
  • How do your adaptations show responsible AI use?
  1. Template Creation
  • Share your new prompt template.
  • Why will you use it, and how might you improve it later?
  1. Peer Learning
  • From the five blogs you reviewed, what is one idea you could use?

Please respond to the questions below to evaluate your learning.

Go back to Table of Contents
Children in a Classroom

Activity 4: Plan with Inclusive Profiles

11 August 2025 /

Activity 4 follows a constructivist learning theory and aligns with Learning objective 3: Apply ethical and responsible practices when using AI in lesson planning.

Activity 4 is designed to give teachers examples on how to use AI to support the wide variety of needs in their classroom while respecting confidentiality.

Instructions: 

  1. Create profiles for students with diverse needs from your own classroom. For example: Student A: has dyslexia and benefits from audio and visuals. 
  2. Be sure to not include names, addresses, or personal information. 
  3. In the future when you copy and paste the student profile into the genAI platform, you can do so with confidence as you have practiced using AI responsibly while keeping confidential information confidential.
Give me a lesson plan on the topic (subject) that considers and can be adapted for:
• Student A (dyslexia; benefits from audio/visuals),
• Student B (ADHD; difficulty starting daunting tasks),
• Student C (advanced learner; would benefit from extension challenges),
• Student D (insert one of your profiles from the previous activity).

Please respond to the question below to evaluate your learning.

Go to Table of Contents
Continue to Activity 5

Activity 3: Create Inclusive Student Profiles (No PII)

11 August 2025 /

Create profiles for students of diverse needs. Do not include names, addresses, or personal information.

Student A Profile: (e.g., has dyslexia; benefits from audio and visuals)
Student B Profile: (e.g., ADHD; struggles to initiate large tasks—benefit from chunking/visual timers)
Student C Profile: (e.g., advanced learner; needs extensions and choice)
Student D Profile: (your own classroom context)
Scrabble Tiles Spelling Gemini and AI on Wooden Surface
Photo by Markus Winkler on Pixels

Activity 2: The Power of Specificity

11 August 2025 /

This activity 2 follows a constructivist learning theory and aligns with learning objective 6: Confidently integrate digital tools into their teaching workflow.

Activity 2 is split into 2 parts. This activity is designed to emphasize the importance of language and specificity when using GENAI. Practicing the right language and being specific when prompting AI will ultimately make for a more efficient and effective experience.

Part 1: watch this light-hearted video below about a dad asking his kids to explain to him how to make a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. While you watch, please think about how important it is to use precise language when giving directions.

Part 2: Now that you have watched the pb and jelly video from part one, you are ready to prompt AI with this set of sentences and compare the results. 

Intructions:

  1. Copy and paste this set of sentences one at a time, starting with “a” into GEMINI. If you haven’t done so already, sign up for GEMINI. Instructions can be found HERE.
  2. Once you have all of your results, compare and contrast each of the outputs based on the inputs. (Tip: Notice how the results vary as each one gets more detailed).
a) Prompt 1: Make a list of activities 
b) Prompt 2: Make a list of water activities
c) Prompt 3: Make a list of water activities for 10-year-olds
d) Prompt 4: Make a list of water activities for 10-year-olds to do on a field trip at the beach
e) Prompt 5: Generate a list of activities for a class of 5th graders on a field trip to the beach that are fun and align with the bc grade 5 Science Curriculum.

You should get something like this with prompt a:

And something like this with prompt e:

Please respond to the questions below to evaluate your learning.

Go to Table of Contents
Continue to Activity 3

« Older posts

© 2025

Theme by Anders Noren — Up ↑